POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH SCHOLAR

The Swarm Research Group welcomes applications for a postdoctoral research scholar position. The successful candidate will join a research collaboration developing thin-film reflective coatings to enable gamma ray focusing optics for astrophysical instrumentation.This position is for one year with the potential for extension for an additional year and would have an approximate start date of August 1, 2026.

The responsibilities of this postdoctoral researcher may include: evaluating and precicting focusing optics performance via software simulations, assisting in construction of reflectometry equipment, integrating and calibrating gamma ray detectors, designing reflectivity testing procedures using the laboratory reflectometer and externa synchroton facilities, mentoring junior graduate students and/or undergraduate students, and disseminating research results via publications and/or conference presentations.

Interested scholars should apply online through the Jobs@UIOWA website. Required application materials include a CV and letter of interest and the names and contact information for two professional references.

Work authorization sponsorship in J-1 status is available for this position.

• PhD in physics, astrophysics, astronomy, or a related discipline with the degree conferred by the start date.

• Experience working in a hardware laboratory setting.


• Experience designing, constructing, or testing x-ray or gamma ray astronomical instrumentation.


• Ability to clearly communicate research as demonstrated by publications, conference proceedings, and/or oral presentations.

• Experience in optics metrology and/or thin-film characterization techniques, especially reflectivity testing.


• Experience in gamma ray detector integration, characterization, or testing.


• Experience mentoring student researchers.

To start the Online Application process for this position, click the "Apply for This Position" button located below the Contact Information.